Symptoms are often subtle, persistent, and usually increase over time. If symptoms persist for two or more weeks, see your doctor: preferably a gynecologist.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. This abnormal growth is caused by mutations in the cells’ DNA that lead to the creation of a mass (tumor). Cancer is named for the part of the body where it originates, even if it later spreads to other organs. Ovarian cancer is believed to originate in a woman’s ovaries, but new research is finding that it may also begin in the fallopian tubes or peritoneum (tissue that lines abdominal organs).

After diagnosis, the cancer is given a stage based on the spread of the cancer throughout the woman’s body. Ovarian cancer stages range from stage I (1) through IV (4). As a rule, the lower the number, the less the cancer has spread. A higher number, such as stage IV, means cancer has spread more. Although each person’s cancer experience is unique, cancers with similar stages tend to have a similar outlook and are often treated in much the same way.